Khachanov: ‘That was the key to beating Tsitsipas’

World No. 16 Karen Khachanov caused a big surprise in Indian Wells when she defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas, against whom he suffered 6 losses in as many games. Khachanov, who was on a 23-game losing streak against the top ten players in the world, grabbed the win 7-6(4) 6-4 in 93 minutes.

“They say lucky the third time, but it took me seven times, so I’m very lucky,” said Khachanov. “The most important thing is not that I beat Stefanos, but how I fought. After the Australian Open, I had some problems with an injury. I returned to Dubai without many games and I’m happy to continue at this level. That’s what I wanted carry on, enjoy the process, the journey that has continuity”.

Then the Russian pointed out the key elements that helped him win: “I think limiting Tsitsipas was key. We both served quite well in the first set, then it was a tie-break and in the second set, when the opportunity presented itself, I had to take it. These conditions are very fast, so I think it’s important to have a good first serve and a good next shot. I think we both played extremely aggressively, so whoever had the chance first won.”

Source: tennis24